Popular Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi has come under intense criticism from Nigerians following comments he made about kidnappers and armed groups operating in parts of the country.
The remarks, which surfaced during an interview with AIT News, quickly sparked outrage online after the cleric appeared to suggest that ransom payments had become a major source of funding for criminal groups involved in banditry and kidnapping.
According to Gumi, the increasing military pressure on the armed groups had forced them into seeking financial support to sustain their activities. He reportedly stated that the kidnappers needed money to keep their operations running due to the heavy security crackdown against them.
His comments immediately triggered heated reactions across social media, with many Nigerians accusing him of sounding sympathetic toward criminal elements responsible for widespread violence, abductions and killings across the country.
Several users expressed shock and anger over the statement, arguing that such remarks were insensitive considering the growing insecurity affecting many communities.
Some critics questioned why the cleric would make comments that appeared to explain or defend the activities of kidnappers at a time many families continue to suffer from terrorism and abduction.
Others went further by demanding stronger action from authorities, insisting that anyone perceived to be supporting or justifying criminal activities should be investigated.
The controversy has continued to dominate conversations online, with many Nigerians debating the impact of public statements made by influential figures on sensitive national security issues.
While supporters of tougher security measures condemned the remarks outright, others argued that the comments reflected the reality of how criminal groups sustain their operations. Despite differing opinions, the statement has remained a major topic of discussion across social media platforms.
